What services do you offer?

I specialize in four core areas: Strategic Content Leadership (building and leading creative editorial storytelling teams), Operational Excellence (implementing frameworks like OKR methodology and disciplined workflow design), Talent Acquisition & Team Building (recruiting diverse editorial teams and identifying leadership talent), and Digital Product Strategy (guiding organizations through digital transformations). I help organizations crystallize their goals through proven operational frameworks and strategic content initiatives.

What types of organizations do you work with?

I work with medium to large-sized organizations, nonprofits, and mission-driven companies that value storytelling and need content leadership. My clients include organizations in journalism, media, technology, and sectors where demonstrating impact through compelling narratives is essential to building customer loyalty and stakeholder value.

What is OKR methodology and how can it help my organization?

Objectives and Key Results (OKR) is a goal-setting framework that helps organizations align teams, measure progress, and achieve meaningful outcomes. I have implemented OKR frameworks that have resulted in significant operational savings and high success rates on strategic priorities. I provide both the strategic guidance and tactical support needed to make OKRs work for your organization.

What makes your approach to team building unique?

I excel at finding the perfect fit between people and roles, whether recruiting diverse editorial teams, building creative departments from scratch, or identifying leadership talent. My approach creates high-energy, inclusive cultures that foster collaboration and inspire excellence. I don't just fill positions – I coach team members for immediate success while positioning them for long-term growth and advancement.

Can you help with content strategy for digital platforms?

Yes, digital product strategy is a core competency. With decades of multimedia storytelling expertise spanning newsrooms, digital platforms, and software companies, I guide organizations through content strategy development, digital transformations, and platform launches that drive both engagement and revenue growth.

What is your background?

I bring over 20 years of experience building teams and telling stories that matter. My career includes senior leadership roles at the Star Tribune (one of America's leading local news organizations), Total Expert (software), and iPondr (DEI learning platform). I have expertise in content strategy, digital product development, team building, and organizational transformation across journalism, technology, and content-driven organizations.

Do you work with remote or distributed teams?

Absolutely. I have extensive experience building and leading geographically distributed teams, including recruiting diverse editorial staff and freelance networks across the country. I understand the unique challenges and opportunities of remote collaboration and bring best practices for digital communication and distributed team management.

How do you measure success?

I believe in measurable business impact. My work has resulted in revenue growth, operational savings, and increases in audience and engagement. I work with you to establish clear targets aligned with your organizational goals and track progress transparently.

What industries have you worked in?

I have deep expertise in journalism and media, technology and software, nonprofit organizations, DEI initiatives, and product marketing. This diverse background enables me to bring cross-industry insights and proven strategies to solve unique challenges in editorial storytelling, content strategy, and organizational development.

How do you approach organizational change?

I view organizational change as an expedition where every challenge holds potential for growth. My approach combines servant leadership principles (approachable, encouraging, transparent, and accountable) with a culture of optimism that prioritizes kindness, demonstrates trust, and demands results. I guide organizations through transformation with adaptability, collaborative problem-solving, and a focus on positioning teams for sustainable success.

What guides your work?

I believe stories matter and every organization's work should create clear value for its community and customers. I serve as a guide on your organization's expedition toward meaningful impact, finding the perfect fit between your mission, your people, and the talent that will drive your success. I help organizations discover that every moment in their journey holds both the potential for joy and the invitation to act on new adventures.

How do I get started working with you?

Contact me directly at powell.cory@gmail.com or connect via LinkedIn. We'll begin with a conversation about your organization's goals, challenges, and vision to determine how I can best support your success.